The hearing into Manchester City's 115 Premier League charges will begin on Monday , with a points deduction potentially looming for the reigning champions.
City, who is chasing a fifth straight Premier League title, are at risk of a limitless fine or expulsion from English football's top flight if found guilty. Senior figures at the club have rejected allegations against them, and now a hearing is on the horizon.
The club is alleged to have broken Premier League financial rules over nine years beginning in 2009. They have been accused of failing to provide accurate financial information, with several different charges leveled.
In August, Premier League chief Richard Masters said it was "time to resolve" the case against City. "It's been going on for several years and I think it's self-evident that the case needs to be heard and answered,” he said.
"Manchester City FC is surprised by the issuing of these alleged breaches of the Premier League Rules, particularly given the extensive engagement and vast amount of detailed materials that the EPL has been provided with," Manchester City said in a February 2023 statement. That was the same month the Premier League confirmed City's alleged breaches had been sent to a commission.
"The Club welcomes the review of this matter by an independent Commission, to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position," City continued. "As such we look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all."
The Premier League's investigation was launched in 2019, though it wasn't until 2023 that the full list of alleged breaches was released by the league. Among the allegations are a failure to fully disclose the financial remunerations made to one manager and a failure to comply with UEFA's financial fair play rules over a five-year period.
The hearing is expected to go on for two months. The independent commission looking into the case is then expected to take a significant time to reach a ruling, owing in part to the volume of charges.
This means a decision is anticipated in the new year. It has been suggested a publication of the ruling is unlikely to arrive before the spring, and could even take longer.
Even if City are handed a points deduction or other punishment, they would be allowed to appeal the ruling. This could stretch proceedings out even further.
"Commissions are independent of the Premier League and member clubs," The Premier League said in its statement about City in February 2023. "The members of the Commission will be appointed by the independent Chair of the Premier League Judicial Panel, in accordance with Premier League Rules W.19, W.20 and W.26.
"The proceedings before the Commission will, in accordance with Premier League Rule W.82, be confidential and heard in private. Under Premier League Rule W.82.2, the Commission’s final award will be published on the Premier League’s website.
"This confirmation is made in accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.1. The Premier League will be making no further comment in respect of this matter until further notice."
Local News
Comments / 0